Sikkim calls for action after ‘violation’ of Khangchendzonga’s sanctity

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, voicing serious concern over a recent ascent of Mount Khangchendzonga by a team from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), reportedly from the Nepal side.

In his letter, CM Tamang termed the act a “violation of sacred traditions and legal protections,” underscoring that Mount Khangchendzonga is not just a mountain but a revered deity in Sikkimese culture. “The mountain is not just a peak—it is a living deity,” the chief minister wrote, reflecting the public outrage the incident has triggered.

Tamang reminded the Centre that climbing the sacred peak is banned under Sikkim’s official notifications issued in 1998 and 2001, in accordance with the Sacred Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. He urged Shah to diplomatically take up the matter with Nepal to prevent future climbs that hurt local religious sentiments. “Such actions must be handled with utmost sensitivity,” he added.